Vision Screening

To screen your vision, you will be asked to look into a machine and read lines of letters or numbers to the DMV representative.
This screening determines whether your eyesight and peripheral vision meet Virginia's standards to safely operate a motor
vehicle. It is not a medical exam. If you fail the vision screening, you may be asked to see an eye care professional.
If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses to pass the vision screening, you must wear them when you drive. Your
license will show this restriction.

It is important to note that DMV's vision screening is not an eye exam and is not intended to be an indicator of the health of your
eyes. We strongly encourage all drivers to visit their eye care professional on a regular basis.

Laser Surgery

To have the corrective lens restriction removed after having laser surgery to correct your vision, you must visit a
DMV customer service center and obtain
a replacement license. You will be required to pass the vision
screening without wearing glasses or contact lenses.

If the expiration date on your license is less than six months away, you may choose to renew your driver's license instead of
replacing it.

Vision Requirements

License Type

Minimum Requirements

Comments

Driver's License

20/40 or better vision in one or both eyes, and

100 degrees, or better, horizontal vision in one or both eyes.

Restricted to Daylight Hours Only

20/70 or better vision in one or both eyes, and

70 degrees, or better, horizontal vision. If vision is limited to only one eye, 40 degrees or better temporal and 30 degrees
or better nasal are required.

A restricted license permits you to drive only during the period of time beginning one-half
hour after sunrise and ending one-half hour before sunset.

Commercial Driver's License

20/40 or better vision in each eye

140 degrees, or better, horizontal vision

These visual requirements must be met without the aid of a telescopic lens. Some drivers may be granted waivers from these
vision requirements.

Intrastate Only CDL or Commercial Learner's Permit

If you are unable to meet Virginia minimum vision requirements for a commercial driver's license or commercial learner's permit, you may
apply to Medical Review Services for a disability waiver to qualify for an intrastate only CDL or commercial learner's permit, provided
you meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) minimum vision requirements in one eye: